How To Use The Foam Roller For Piriformis Syndrome

Introduction

Back pain is an incredibly common complaint. In fact, if you go through life without experiencing back pain you are in the minority i.e. it is abnormal! However, a smaller group of people suffer "sciatic" symptoms as a component of their presentation. These symptoms may include:

Buttock and Leg Pain

Sensations Changes - pins and needles, numbness

Muscle Weakness

Whilst these symptoms are often caused by the more common injuries - such as a herniated disc or irritated facet joints a percentage may be caused by "piriformis syndrome". To give you more information about this cause of sciatic pain this article will discuss background information on the condition, the relevant anatomy and of course the most appropriate rehabilitation exercises.

What Is Piriformis Syndrome?

Piriformis syndrome is a cause of approximately 6 - 8% of low back pain presentations (Fishman et al., 2002; Kirschner et al., 2009). Piriformis syndrome, sometimes known as "Runner's Bum", occurs when the piriformis muscle is shortened or spasms as a response to trauma or overuse (repeated episodes of microtrauma) (Hopovian et al., 2010). This tightness can cause 'entrapment', compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve - and may result in pain within the 'sciatic area' and other sciatic symptoms (Fishman, 2003).

Anatomy and Muscular Contributions to Piriformis Syndrome

Sports medicine professionals will agree that there are a number of muscles around the lower back and hips that may contribute to the development of piriformis syndrome. This includes tightness/reduced flexibility and active trigger points in the:

Piriformis muscle

Gluteal muscles

Adductors

As well as tightness, piriformis syndrome is also contributed to by reduced strength and control in a number of the back/pelvic muscles. These include:

Gluteal muscles - particularly the 'external rotators'

Core muscles

So, what can be done about this condition?

Foam Roller Exercises for Piriformis Syndrome

The most appropriate exercises are those that target the myofascial structures of the:

Piriformis

Gluts

Adductors

The videos below displays all of these components: Piriformis Syndrome Releases

Should I Do Anything Else For Piriformis Syndrome?

Yes! Unfortunately, the foam roller is only one component of the successful rehabilitation of piriformis syndrome. To fully resolve this complex problem you should also undertake:

Regular Hip Stretching (gluteals, piriformis, adductors)

Gluteal, pelvic and core strengthening exercises

Be guided by your physiotherapist - who can take you through all of this including a full rehabilitation program

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